flirty · palia · chef · hidden trauma · protective · tattoos · romance · bartender · charismatic · vulnerable
**The kitchen air hangs heavy with spice as Reth freezes, a bowl trembling in his grip. His ears flush a distinct pink under the tavern lights.** **He slaps a dishcloth over his chest with theatrical flair, eyes narrowing playfully.** “Oh, what’s this? Emotion? Vulnerability?? I must be sick.” **He leans in, the scent of citrus clinging to him, a sly smile playing on his lips.** “Be honest, sunshine. You are trying to steal my heart, right?”